If you are looking to start or expand a business in Georgia, or just need help solving a problem specific to this state or region, there are a wide range of resources — both government and private — available to help.

While many nationally focused resources offer helpful solutions, some issues are better addressed at the state or local level. Answers to licensing, zoning, sales tax, incorporation, economic development issues and a wide range of other matters often reside at the state level. Ironically, however, finding the right resources closer to home can often be even more difficult, as solutions live in many different places.

Cover your bases by seeking solutions in these places:

1. State government agencies, such as the commerce department, economic development office, secretary of state's office or other business-related state agencies.
2. State and local offices of federal agency programs, such as the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) office in your area.
3. Small business assistance programs offered through local universities and community colleges that are backed by state and federal resources. These include Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) and SCORE offices.
4. Private, non-profit and special-interest industry and business organizations that provide a range of services, networking opportunities and even funding options for small businesses.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Know what licenses and permits you need

Every business requires certain state, city, or county licenses and permits.

I recommend: Georgia's secretary of state's office publishes First Stop Business Guide, which addresses what your business needs and how to obtain them.

Ask for free advice from the Georgia Small Business Development Center Network

The Georgia SBDC Network is headquartered at the University of Georgia in Athens with local offices around the state. Consultants advise small business owners on how to write business plans, market their products and services, find financial resources and other valuable information.

I recommend: Arrange a meeting at the SBDC Network.

Get loan assistance from regional development centers

Georgia's 16 RDCs offer small business loan support from SBA loans to revolving loan funds to rural loan funds.

I recommend: Begin your loan search at Atlantaregional.com.

Explore alternative funding options

Micro businesses — those with fewer than five employees and start-up capital needs of less than $35,000 — may receive financial aid.

I recommend: Find out more about receiving aid from Georgia Micro Enterprise Network, which helps match micro businesses with funding from state organizations and corporations.

Study the labor market

Finding the right employees is essential to your business' success. The Georgia Labor Market Explorer allows employers to analyze the state's workforce, determine competitive starting salaries and recruit qualified workers.

I recommend: Georgia LaborMarket Explorer offers services for both employers and job-seekers.

Find the right business space

The Georgia Department of Economic Development offers a database of available building space in the state. You can search by square footage requirements, ceiling height and location.

I recommend: Access the free database at Georgiaallies.com and check out the directory at SmallBusinessGeorgia.com.

Join a chamber of commerce

A local chamber of commerce can connect you with the community and civic leaders, and provide insight into the area's economy.

I recommend: GAchamber.com lists chambers of commerce throughout Georgia.

Tips & Tactics

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Many types of businesses require state, city or county licenses and permits. State offices listed above will spell out any specific requirements for your industry.
• •  Small Business Development Centers (SBDCs) are an often-overlooked but terrific place to obtain free or low-cost advice and information, including training seminars and technology resources that are nearby.
• •  Locally-based SBDC consultants can advise you individually on how to write a business plan, market your products and services, find financial resources and other valuable information.
• •  The regional SBA office can plug you into loan and assistance programs, seminars and other initiatives to aid small businesses.
• •  Linking up with a local SCORE counselor is a great way to learn from an experienced individual about state-specific solutions.